How Much Is The Atlanta Fair? A Local’s Guide to Prices, Deals, and What to Expect

If you’re planning a night out at The Atlanta Fair, the first thing you probably want to know is: How much is it going to cost? Between admission, ride tickets, parking, and snacks, the total can add up—especially for families or groups.

Below is a clear, Atlanta-focused breakdown of typical Atlanta Fair costs, what affects the price, and how locals often save money.

Where Is The Atlanta Fair and When Does It Happen?

The Atlanta Fair is usually held in a large parking lot near Downtown Atlanta, often close to Atlanta University Center and major streets like Northside Drive.

• Typical area: Southwest of downtown, near major Atlanta landmarks and highways
• Season: Often runs for several weeks in early spring (exact dates vary every year)
• Hours: Usually evenings on weekdays and longer hours on weekends

Because it’s a temporary fair, the midway, rides, and ticket booths are all on-site and only available while the fair is in season.

How Much Does It Cost to Get Into The Atlanta Fair?

The base cost you’ll pay is admission, just to enter the fairgrounds.

Exact numbers change year to year, but Atlanta residents generally see:

• Weekday admission: Usually cheaper (often a lower base price)
• Weekend admission: Typically higher, especially on Friday and Saturday nights
• Kids’ pricing: Younger children sometimes qualify for reduced or free admission up to a certain age or height
• Special entry times: There are sometimes discounted early-bird hours or midweek promotions

Typical admission patterns

While the exact dollar amount shifts, people typically experience something like:

• Lower prices earlier in the season or on weeknights
• Higher prices on peak days, like Saturday nights or special event nights
• Occasional special nights, like carload deals, student nights, or family value days

If you’re on a budget, Monday–Thursday evenings are often the best value for admission.

How Do Ride Tickets Work at The Atlanta Fair?

Once you’re inside, rides are not included with basic admission. Rides are paid for with credits/tickets or a wristband, depending on what you choose and what’s offered that season.

Typical ride pricing structure

You’ll usually see options like:

• Individual ride credits or tickets
• All-you-can-ride wristbands, available on certain days or time windows

Most Atlanta fairgoers find:

• Big thrill rides cost more credits/tickets per ride
• Kiddie rides cost fewer credits/tickets per ride

If your group plans to ride several attractions, a wristband day can be much more cost-effective than paying per ride.

Sample Cost Breakdown: A Typical Night at The Atlanta Fair

Here’s a simple example to help you budget. This is a general scenario, not exact pricing:

🔍 Takeaway:

• A single person going light on rides and food can keep things modest.
• A family planning to ride a lot and eat at the fair should expect a higher total, especially on weekends.

Are There Discounts or Cheaper Days at The Atlanta Fair?

Yes, many Atlanta residents plan their visit around discounts and special days.

You may see:

• Midweek discount admission: Often Monday–Thursday
• Unlimited-ride wristband days: A set price for all rides during a specific time block
• Early arrival specials: Cheaper wristbands or admission if you enter before a certain time
• Promotional nights: Back-to-school, college nights, or themed nights with lower prices

💡 Money-saving tips:

• Go on a weeknight rather than Friday or Saturday.
• Arrive early if there’s an early-bird window.
• Check whether unlimited-ride wristbands are offered the day you want to go.
• If you’re mainly going for food and atmosphere and don’t plan to ride much, you may not need a wristband at all—just a small amount in ride tickets.

What About Parking Costs Near The Atlanta Fair?

Because the fair is held near Downtown Atlanta, parking is rarely free and prices can vary based on nearby lots and events.

You can expect:

• Paid parking lots near the fairgrounds, often with flat event-style pricing
• Variable costs depending on:
  • Day of the week
  • Time of arrival
  • Whether there are other events happening nearby (like games or concerts)

To keep parking costs reasonable:

• Arrive earlier in the evening before the lots get crowded.
• Look for well-lit, official lots rather than random curbside parking.
• If you’re coming from another part of Atlanta, consider using MARTA plus a short rideshare instead of driving and parking right next to the fair.

How Much Should an Atlanta Family Budget for The Atlanta Fair?

The total cost will depend on how many people are going and how heavily you plan to ride and eat. For Atlanta families, a rough planning approach is:

• Minimal visit (rides light, mostly walking around):
  • Budget for admission + a small number of ride tickets + maybe one snack per person.
• Ride-focused visit (kids want to ride almost everything):
  • Check for unlimited-ride wristband days and budget for admission + wristbands + a couple of snacks or drinks.
• Full experience (rides, games, and fair food):
  • Add a buffer for games, which can add up quickly if kids get hooked on winning prizes.

In general, many locals find it helpful to:

• Set a ride and game budget per child ahead of time
• Decide how many food purchases you’ll make at the fair vs. eating before you arrive

This keeps the night fun without surprise costs.

Is The Atlanta Fair Worth the Cost?

For many Atlantans, the fair is less about getting the absolute cheapest entertainment and more about:

• Experiencing a classic carnival atmosphere close to downtown
• Letting kids enjoy midway rides, games, and treats without leaving the city
• Adding a special outing during the spring season

If you plan ahead—choosing a cheaper day, watching for wristband specials, and setting a clear budget—the Atlanta Fair can be an enjoyable outing without unexpected expenses.

Quick Checklist Before You Go

Use this to avoid surprises at The Atlanta Fair:

• ✅ Check this year’s admission and ride prices
• ✅ See which days offer wristbands or discounts
• ✅ Plan how you’re getting there (driving, MARTA, rideshare)
• ✅ Budget for admission, rides, food, games, and parking
• ✅ Bring a payment method the fair accepts (most vendors use cards or digital, but check ahead if you prefer cash)

By knowing how the costs typically break down in Atlanta, you can choose the best day and budget for The Atlanta Fair and enjoy the night without stressing over the bill.